Health workers in Kaduna State under the auspices of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), the Association of Hospital and Administrative Pharmacists of Nigeria (AHAPN), and the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN), have initiated an indefinite strike due to unmet demands from the state government.
In a joint statement released by their leaders—Comrade Ishaka Yakubu (NANNM), Mansur S. Halidu (AHAPN), and Comrade Jesse David (AMLSN)—the groups expressed that they had no choice but to strike following the government’s failure to address their longstanding issues.
The statement outlined key demands, including: Implementation of the 30% balance of the 2009 Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) for workers in the State Ministry of Health and the State Primary Health Care Board.
Implementation of the 2021 hazard allowance for these health workers.
Payment of the 2019 CONHESS for staff at Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital and settling arrears for newly recruited workers from 2023 and Immediate release and implementation of outstanding promotions along with their corresponding arrears.
The unions said despite a good-faith suspension of a previous warning strike two months ago, the health workers reported receiving no tangible benefits, citing the government’s lack of commitment as a disregard for their welfare and the healthcare system.
The unions called on the government and stakeholders to act swiftly, emphasizing that the health of Kaduna State residents relies on a motivated and well-compensated workforce and expressed regret over the strike’s impact on the public, stating that they had exhausted all other options.